melchi_manoah_michel

Let me begin by assuring you that I know that I am in a potential

mess. I know the pitfalls associated with photographing weddings and

I have done my best to avoid (and decline, when necessary) any

requests to serve as <b> the </b> wedding photographer for friends and

relatives. However, my girlfriend's cousin is getting married next

weekend and had not hired a photographer, so my girlfriend told her I

would take the wedding photos as a wedding present. Now I'm stuck. I

have already warned the cousin not to expect much, but I would like to

do the best job I can under these conditions. </p>

Here are the conditions: </p>

<ul>

<li>The wedding was hastily planned (which is why I'm photographing

it), so I don't yet know all the specifics.

<li>Paradoxically, there will be many guests despite the above comment.

<li>The bride and groom will be married by a justice of the peace. I

don't know whether this has any importance.

<li>Fortunately (right?),the wedding ceremony will take place

outdoors, though the reception will be indoors.

</ul>

This is the equipment I have available:</p>

<ul>

<li>Cameras: Pentax Pz-1p(af) and ME Super 35mm SLR's, Canonet

rangefinder, Yashica 124g TLR. (I also have a 4x5 system, but I don't

think that will be very useful).

<li>Lenses: 50mm 1.4, 77mm 1.8, 24mm 2.8, 70-200mm 2.8, 35mm 2.8

<li>Flash: TTL GN-92 shoe-mounted flash, Two 400w AC monolights w/

umbrellas (I figure I could use these for formal shots if necessary).

<li>Film: I was planning on using Reala and NPH along with some TMax B&W

<li>Experience: no wedding experience, some experience with studio and

available light portraiture, and some street photography. (These days

I primarily shoot landscapes ... no help there).

</ul> </p>

I would appreciate whatever suggestions you have. I have no illusions

about doing a great job, but I would like to do an adequate one.